Country Style Weddings are "In" Right Now

When a bride says she is having a country wedding, just what does that mean? Many images come to mind. Is she planning a wedding in a meadow? On a farm or ranch? Beside a river? Or something else? The first thing a bride needs to do is define her vision, then determine whether it can be reasonably accomplished. 

I have planned and coordinated numerous weddings in the country, some more rustic than others. We have held ceremonies on top of mountains, where we had to trim the brush to enable guests to make the climb. We have held them beside rivers and lakes. We have had receptions in tents in meadows and fields. Most recently, we held a ceremony in front of a barn with dinner in the second floor hay loft and dancing on the lower level between the horse stalls.

Most country weddings can be accomplished but it may not be easy. Tables, chairs, linens, tents and more will need to be rented, often incurring a huge delivery fee. There may not be running water or electricity, necessitating the rental of generators and the need to haul water. Should anything be forgotten, there is no opportunity to make a quick trip to the store. And what about guest lodging? Unless the majority of your guests are campers, you will need to provide lodging somewhere.

If you are interested in having a country wedding, first make an appointment with a wedding planner who is experienced in such events. Her suggestions will be invaluable. Then you can decide whether your budget, and your sanity, can handle having a country wedding.